What cables do I need to connect my Kali monitors or subwoofer?


It depends on your audio interface or source, but we're going to steer you toward balanced cables anytime we can. 


Balanced vs. Unbalanced and Why It Matters


Balanced connections (XLR or TRS) send your audio signal twice (once normally - once inverted) and flip it back at the destination. Any noise picked up along the way cancels itself out. The pros have been using this method for decades and so should you. If you have the option to run balanced, run balanced. 


Unbalanced connections (RCA, 3.5mm etc.) work fine for short distances, but they're more susceptible to hum and interference. We're not gonna shame your RCA cables, but if you're investing in a quality monitoring setup, balanced really is the move.


For LP-Series, IN-Series, SM-Series (and most studio monitors):


Your monitors have both XLR and TRS (1/4") balanced inputs. Either works great - just match what your audio interface outputs:

  • Interface with XLR outputs:  XLR to XLR 

  • Interface with TRS outputs: TRS to TRS

  • TRS/XLR combo cables exist if you want to go that route. Remember, TRS = the 3 pins on XLR. 

  • No interface / consumer gear: RCA will do the job — just know you're going unbalanced. Not available on all models. 


For LP-UNF:


The two speakers connect to each other via the included 4-pin Phoenix connector cable (it comes in the box - we sell an 8ft/2,4m option as well - check out www.kaliaudio.com/lp-unf). Your audio source then connects to the powered unit via:


  • USB-C (plug and play with most computers - super clean!)

  • TRS (balanced, and definitely the go-to method for professionals)

  • Bluetooth (convenient, and it works great - just don’t use it for any “mission-crtitical” applications)

  • RCA (unbalanced, but totally usable and common in consumer audio signal paths)


For IN-UNF:


The IN-UNF brings a few more connection options:

  • USB-C (clean and simple)

  • Optical or “TOSLINK” (TVs, gaming consoles etc.)

  • 3.5mm AUX (unbalanced, but handy for phones, tablets, or casual listening)

  • TRS (balanced and professional quality. Our recommendation!)




For WS-6.2 / WS-12 Subwoofers:

Your sub connects between your audio interface and your monitors. Most common setup:


  • Interface/DAC > Sub (XLR/TRS combijack or RCA) > Monitors (via the sub XLR or TRS outputs)


This lets the sub handle the crossover and pass the signal through to your main monitors. 


Outlier Cases

Our TRS inputs are designed to receive mono TRS. Inputting this into a pair of monitors gives you Left + Right = Stereo. You cannot get stereo out of a single speaker by sending it a stereo TRS signal (think ¼” headphone jack). Stereo TRS headphone plugs have a different configuration than mono TRS. And one speaker = one channel. Stereo will always need two! 


TL;DR — Our Recommendation

Go balanced. XLR or TRS, depending on what your interface supports. It's what the pros use, it's what we'd use, and it's going to give you the cleanest, most accurate signal for your Kali setup.


Any questions about your specific setup? Our agents are standing by!